St Thomas of Villanova Parish School

## 1. Overview St Thomas of Villanova Parish School Mareeba is a Catholic primary school serving families in Mareeba, QLD. The school emphasises faith-based education within a supportive, family-like community, focused on the holistic development of each child. - School type: Catholic - School size: small to medium - Class size: typically around 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: nurturing, inclusive, faith-informed, community-minded Parents looking for a close-knit, values-driven primary experience for their children will commonly appreciate the warm, supportive environment and emphasis on both academic growth and social wellbeing. ⧺ Note: Specific programming, class configurations and facilities may vary by year and cohort. Please confirm current offerings with the school. --- ## 2. Academics & Learning St Thomas of Villanova Mareeba aims to deliver solid literacy and numeracy foundations alongside faith-based education and character development. The school typically emphasizes: - Academic strengths: literacy/numeracy foundations, explicit teaching of reading and mathematics, and integrated religious education as a core part of the curriculum; opportunities for leadership and service within the school community - Special programs: Catholic Religious Education experiences, pastoral care, and differentiated learning to support diverse learners; programs commonly seen in rural Catholic schools may include targeted literacy/math supports and opportunities for student leadership - NAPLAN trends: as a small/cohort-based primary school, year-to-year performance can fluctuate; schools generally focus on steady improvement in core skills with targeted intervention where needed - Student-teacher ratios: smaller class sizes often enable closer teacher-student interaction; teacher aides may support learning in some classes - Support for diverse learners: EAL support and SEN/learning support available where needed; individual transition plans or adjustments typically offered through school processes Note: For the most current details on programs, staffing, and learner supports, contact the school directly. --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Sports and broad extracurriculars help many families gauge a school’s activity level. Typical strengths you may find at St Thomas of Villanova Mareeba include: - Sports offered: a range of school-based sports common to Queensland primary schools (e.g., athletics, cricket, football codes, soccer, netball) with participation-focused teams - Strong teams or achievements: emphasis on teamwork, participation, and inter-school events; success varies by year and cohort - Music, arts, drama programs: school-based music and performing arts activities are commonly offered, including choir or band opportunities and school productions - Clubs: robotics, coding, chess, debating are commonly explored options; availability depends on staff and student interest - Partnerships: connections with local community groups and regional competitions; participation in diocesan or inter-school events where possible This section reflects typical offerings; exact clubs and teams should be confirmed with the school as programs evolve. --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing is a priority for families when selecting a school. Typical wellbeing and pastoral features include: - Anti-bullying approach: proactive, school-wide strategies emphasizing respect, safety, and inclusive behaviour - House system: students are often placed in houses to foster community, leadership opportunities, and healthy competition - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: access to a school counsellor or wellbeing staff to support emotional and social development - Transition support for new students: buddy systems, orientation activities, and dedicated staff to help new students settle in These elements help create a safe, supportive environment that encourages students to grow academically and personally. --- ## 5. Facilities Facilities help bring learning to life. Common features you may find include: - Sports grounds - Libraries - Science labs - Music/performing arts centers - Tech/innovation labs or dedicated ICT spaces - Cafeteria or canteen facilities - Updated playgrounds and well-maintained outdoor spaces Facilities can vary by building renovations and year-specific updates; check the current campus details with the school. --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture Families often choose a school based on shared values and a sense of community. Typical aspects include: - School values / mission: faith-centered education focused on respect, service, integrity, and inclusion - Leadership style: collaborative and distributed leadership with teacher input and student voice through appropriate channels - Behaviour expectations: clear, positive behaviour expectations aligned with school values - Community reputation: perceptions of a caring, supportive, faith-based learning community - Diversity & inclusion: commitment to welcoming families from diverse backgrounds and supporting all students to belong and thrive The culture tends to emphasize faith, service, and respect alongside academic effort. --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Key logistical details help families plan daily life around school rhythms: - School hours: typically a morning-to-afternoon schedule (e.g., 9:00 am–3:00 pm), with variation by year level - Before/after school care: common offerings include after-school care or wraparound programs; confirm current options and hours - Uniform requirements: standard school uniform with seasonal adjustments; details provided by the school on where to purchase and what to wear - Transport (train/bus routes): regional transport options or local school bus routes; verify available routes and stop locations - Canteen availability: school canteen or lunch program may be available - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Catholic primary schools typically have annual fees and charges for excursions, materials, and amenities; assess total cost and what is included For precise times, care options, uniform specifics, transport routes, and fee schedules, contact the school directly. --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions Enrolment information helps families understand timeline and requirements: 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Typical steps include submitting an application, providing birth and immunisation records, and attending information or interview sessions. Timeline often centers on annual intake periods with some places held for siblings; contact the school for exact dates. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Many Catholic primary schools maintain a waiting list when year levels are full. The process usually involves a priority order (e.g., siblings, parishioners) and requires an application or registration ahead of time. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry often includes a parish or school interview, family interview, and completion of enrolment forms. Some schools may have placement discussions rather than formal tests for primary intake. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers can be possible, subject to space and directorate policies; seek guidance from the registrar or principal about availability and transitional support. Note: Specific enrolment steps, timelines, and requirements should be confirmed with the school’s enrolments office. --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A close-knit Catholic community that supports faith formation, academics, and character development; personalized attention in smaller classes; strong emphasis on values and service. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value a faith-based, supportive environment, active participation in community life, and a balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and service. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Core opportunities typically include enhanced literacy/numeracy support, leadership roles, faith-based service activities, school clubs, sports teams, music and performing arts programs, and occasional competitions or inter-school events. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent–teacher interviews, reports, digital portals where appropriate, and information evenings; emergency or urgent notices are communicated promptly. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - A holistic approach that blends strong academic instruction with faith formation and social-emotional learning; differentiation and inclusive practices are commonly used to meet diverse learner needs. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted in-class differentiation, learning support staff, and access to specialist programs or adjustments as needed; families may be offered Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or similar measures where applicable. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Additional tutoring or focused intervention within or outside class time; ongoing monitoring of progress and collaboration with families to adjust supports. - How does the school communicate with parents? (Yes, repeated as provided) - See above; expect a mix of digital and in-person communications. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are generally in the 20–25 range for primary years, with teacher aides or additional support in some classes to provide more individualized attention. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports, music/arts activities, and clubs; opportunities may include robotics, coding, chess, debating, and participation in inter-school events. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science labs, performing arts spaces, and ICT/tech facilities are commonly available; specifics depend on current campus resources. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of ICT across the curriculum with interactive learning tools; classrooms may have smart boards and access to devices; some programs may include computer/technology lessons and coding activities. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options or bus routes may exist; proximity for walking or car access; inquire about specifics for your place of residence and family needs. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees vary by year level and activities; expect standard enrollment and resource fees, with additional costs for excursions or special programs. Confirm current fee structures with the school. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Close-knit, faith-based community with a nurturing environment - Smaller class sizes enabling more individual attention - Strong focus on values, wellbeing, and service - Opportunities for leadership and involvement in school life - Range of facilities supporting academics, arts, and sports - Cons - Smaller school may have fewer specialized programs than larger schools - Availability of certain clubs or advanced programs can vary year to year - Transport options may require arrangements for families depending on location - Fees are common for non-public schools and may require budgeting for excursions and activities If you’d like, I can tailor this profile further with any specific details you have from the school (such as current programs, exact class sizes, or latest enrolment dates) to make it more precise for prospective parents.